At least nine people were killed and over 40 injured on Monday as massive protests broke out in Nepal’s capital against the government’s controversial ban on social media platforms.
The unrest, led largely by young demonstrators, escalated into violent clashes near the Parliament complex.
The protests began peacefully, with youth waving national flags and singing the national anthem before raising slogans against the ban and alleged government corruption. Tensions flared when protesters breached restricted zones, prompting police to fire tear gas and deploy water cannons.
The ban, which came into effect on Friday, blocks access to 26 unregistered platforms including Facebook, YouTube, and X, sparking widespread anger and confusion. Civil Hospital officials confirmed their emergency ward was overwhelmed with injured protesters, some of whom sustained serious injuries during the crackdown.
Authorities have since imposed curfews in key areas including Singha Durbar, the President’s residence, and the Parliament zone. The government has yet to issue a formal statement on the fatalities, while civil rights groups have condemned the use of force.
The incident marks one of the most intense youth-led uprisings in recent Nepali history, raising concerns over digital rights, freedom of expression, and state accountability.
